Today, in the heart of Bonga, Ethiopia, a landmark event unfolds—the inauguration of the Women Empowerment Project’s training centre, a space designed to offer new hope and opportunities to women in the region. This centre will provide vocational training in key areas, including hairdressing, cookery, IT, and sewing/tailoring, aiming to uplift local women by equipping them with the skills needed to build their futures independently.
Empowering women through vocational training
This project continues the SiGMA Foundation’s work in Ethiopia, such as the 3-in-1 school in Jimma Bonga, which combines education with creative outlets like circus arts to foster resilience and self-expression in children.
The day’s events are attended by several esteemed figures, including Eman Pulis, founder of SiGMA Group, Denis Dzyubenko, and longtime supporter Kelly Ann Kehn, a respected speaker and investor. Masha Martsulevich, the marketing manager of Spribe, and Keith Marshall, Chief Philanthropy Officer of the SiGMA Foundation, are also present, reflecting the international and collaborative effort behind the project.
Additional significant attendees include Austin Cachia, Treasurer of the SiGMA Foundation, who has been influential in the financial planning of this initiative. Their presence underscores the significance of this moment, a testament to the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to empowering communities.
Stories like Tsion Tekle’s show the project’s success. Once unemployed, she now runs her own salon after completing the training. “With the skills I gained, I opened a small hair salon in my community. It’s been challenging, but I’m proud to earn an income and support myself,” Tekle shared, showing how the project is transforming lives.
Building sustainable futures for Ethiopian communities
The training centre in Bonga stands as the latest step in this journey of empowerment, bolstered by the generous support of sponsors like Alea Gaming, Focus Gaming News, Payment Centre, and PIN-UP. CARE. Each sponsor has dedicated themselves to one of the centre’s key annexes, ensuring that women can access world-class facilities and learn from experienced professionals.
Meet our project champions
- Alea Gaming – sponsoring the IT Annex
- Focus Gaming News – sponsoring the Hairdressing Annex
- Payment Center – sponsoring the Cookery Annex
- PIN-UP. CARE – sponsoring The Care Sewing & Embroidery Annex
In SiGMA Magazine issue 29, Alexandre Tomic, founder of Alea, shared how this project aligns perfectly with their mission: “We are proud to support SiGMA Foundation’s efforts to create opportunities and help communities in need.” By sponsoring the IT Annex, Alea is committed to sustainable development and empowering women to support their families.
Similarly, Fernando Saffores, founder of Focus Gaming News, highlighted their focus on gender equality and collective action: “This project lets us support a worthy cause while contributing to the transformation of women’s lives.” Focus Gaming’s sponsorship of the Hairdressing Annex reflects their commitment to long-lasting social impact.
As the ribbon is cut and the training centre opens its doors, the energy is filled with determination, hope, and a shared belief that change begins with education. Through this project, the SiGMA Foundation reaffirms its commitment to long-term, sustainable development—prioritizing the voices and futures of local women. Looking ahead to 2025, the Foundation plans further projects, such as extending a hospital in Peru, building an MMA Sports Centre in Brazil, and establishing the Batiawan Community Centre in the Philippines, offering even more communities the chance to thrive.
Take part today of this vital work by supporting the SiGMA Foundation’s initiatives. Donations, large or small, contribute directly to the future of these communities, helping to expand programs that equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed. Together, we can continue this mission, walking alongside those whose lives are being transformed through the power of education and opportunity.
The inauguration of this centre is more than a ceremony—it is the beginning of a brighter future for women in Bonga and beyond.
